Himalayacalamus hookerianus (Blue Bamboo) - This clumping bamboo forms an attractive clump of upright 3/4 inch wide culms to 12-18 feet tall with 6 inch long dark green leaves that dangle gracefully. The newly emerging culms are a glaucous blue; this color is retained at the base as the culms age to an olive green. In sunny locations the culms take on a reddish cast on the side facing the sun. Plant in morning sun or light shade in Southern California to full sun further north. Hardy to 15 degrees F. Great for a hedge planting or for large containers. It appears to be especially attractive to gophers, so wire basket protection is advised. Most clones of this bamboo in cultivation flowered continuously through the 1990's and produced an abundance of seedlings that remained smaller than the parent and are marketed as 'New Blue' or 'Blue Baby'. In addition there were seedlings such as 'Teague's Blue', that are more robust. This selection made by Abe Nursery seems to be in between. Besdies this plant we are currently growing a very small selection we call 'Baby Blue', and the robust 'Teague's Blue'. This species was more commonly sold in the U.S. as Drepanostachyum falcatum but plants in cultivation in the U.S. were determined to be Himalayacalamus hookerianus by Kew botanist Chris Stapleton. To confuse matters even more the Candy Stripe Bamboo often sold as Drepanostachyum hookerianum turned out to be Himalayacalamus falconeri 'Damarapa'. This plant comes from E. Asia - Himalayas from E. Nepal to Sikkim and Bhutan.
This description is based on our research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We will also incorporate comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information about this plant, in particular if this information is contrary to what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Himalayaclamus hookerianus.